WHO Says Likely ‘Not The Big One,' Need to Brace For Deadlier Pandemic

The World Health Organization (WHO) chose to leave one more mark in 2020 before the year wraps up. Monday, WHO emergencies chief Mike Ryan warned that the coronavirus pandemic is “not necessarily the big one,” but more of a "wake-up call."

Ryan says the world-changing coronavirus may not be the pandemic experts have long feared. WHO now warns that the world must prepare for deadlier pandemics in the future, the Washington Postnotes.

"This pandemic has been very severe,” Ryan says. “It has affected every corner of this planet. But this is not necessarily the big one.”

“These threats will continue,” he adds.

There are several points about these comments to consider. Ryan is correct that everyone should learn from the mistakes made during this pandemic, including many made daily by all levels of government, experts, everyday citizens, and the media. The media has been especially reckless, covering the virus irresponsibly from the start.

At some point, when the "experts" and reporters move past President Donald Trump's handling of COVID-19, a study should be done on the damage done to the economy, society, and students. We also need to take a second look at the guesses our leaders presented as facts. These should all be, well, a wake-up call for next time.

Context is also important when unpacking Ryan's comments. There's no doubt that the next pandemic could be more, to use Ryan's word, "deadly." But the statement shouldn't be used to overshadow the good news that has finally arrived. Though slower than hoped, the vaccines are rolling out. These U.S.-approved vaccines are believed to prevent the spread of the B.1.1.7 variant that was first found in the U.K. and is now in Colorado.

Are we still listening to the WHO, though?